Sri Lanka Decisive Winner Of The Decider

Sri Lanka decisively beat the English team in the fifth and final one day international by six wickets, winning the series 3-2.

After winning the toss, Alistair Cook, the English captain, decided to bat in the cloudy conditions at Edgbaston, Birmingham. All top eight batsmen reached double figures but could not go on to build a longer innings. England were bowled out for just 219 in 48.1 overs, Malinga taking 3 for 50.

In reply, Sri Lanka too started well with a 55 run open partnership. Three wickets fell in a quick succession and Sri Lanka were suddenly at a dangerous position with 3 down for 62. However, Mahela Jayawardene and Lahiru Thirimanne steered the game away from the home side with a 98 run partnership. Once Mahela was gone for a well made 53, Mathews joined Thirimanne and played an entertaining innings. He scored a quick 42 in just 34 balls. Thirimanne played the anchor role in the innings, something the English team lacked in their innings. He scored 60 not out in 101 balls as Sri Lanka passed the target with 10 bowls to spare.